CHENNAI: Highlighting the alarming rise in stress-induced suicides, Governor RN Ravi on Wednesday urged the Indian Red Cross Society (IRCS) to step in and devise new initiatives to battle the rampant increase in suicides caused by stress.

Delivering a keynote address after inaugurating a bust of Mahatma Gandhi at the premises of the IRCS-Tamil Nadu branch at Egmore, Governor Ravi citing the disturbing statistic that approximately 20,000 individuals take their own lives every year in the State, underscored the alarming rise in stress-related suicides.

“This trend is not unique to Tamil Nadu, as India reports a staggering 12 suicides per 100,000 people,” he said and urged the IRCS to reassess its priorities and expand its scope to include stress management and mental health initiatives.

He advocated for a more proactive approach, encouraging the organisation to identify and provide counselling services to individuals going through depression.

The Governor also emphasised the importance of engaging the youth in the IRCS's activities, suggesting that at least 80 lakh young minds should be reached through its initiatives.

“The organisation must collaborate with educational institutions to achieve this goal,” he said and informed that a Vice-Chancellors' conference is likely to be held in April or May. He added that the discussions will be held on integrating college and university students into the Indian Red Cross Society at the conference.

Governor Ravi also presented awards to individuals for significant contributions to the organisation's endeavours.